Unseasonably Warm

"And this, our life, exempt from public haunt, finds tongues in trees, books in the running brooks, sermons in stones, and good in everything."

~William Shakespeare

Just a few weeks ago, when it should have been snowing and blowing, we found ourselves jumping on bicycles and hitting the trails.  A far cry from typical December weather, we decided to take advantage of a rather lovely day, bike to one of our favorite little places and indulge in some yummy food at Falls Market-  simple and wonderful goodness.

The bike trail from Confluence to Ohiopyle certainty takes on multiple personalities with each season, yet we continue to befriend her, enjoying her many quirks and idiosyncrasies.  Watching the changes from spring to summer and from autumn to winter have proven humbling, as the power and instinct of nature appears ever so evident.  The bike trail, you see, is one place where the changing seasons remain welcome and necessary.  The trail knows how very important the snow, cold and winter freeze are.  Without them, the beauty of summer isn't possible.  

While I don't do church, for various reasons, I am deeply religious and spiritual.  And this, my friends, is my most favorite church in the world.  Maybe someday I'll go inside, sit at a pew and lose myself in my thoughts.  But, for now, I'm content to stay outside and offer quiet prayers and thanksgivings.  

Soon, soon, soon (fingers crossed), snow will cover this magical landscape, acting as an insulating blanket of white to trees, saplings, rocks and plants alike.